O’Rourke shares ‘huge’ update on Victor Osimhen and Newcastle
Newcastle United are unlikely to land a deal to sign Galatasaray star Victor Osimhen in January, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the striker, on loan from Napoli, will demand “huge” money which could put the Magpies off of a deal.
On top of that, he is keen to play Champions League football and it is unlikely as things stand that he could be offered that at St James’ Park.
Osimhen, 25, has a break clause in his loan deal with the Turkish champions which would allow him to make a permanent move elsewhere in January.
He has established himself as one of the most high-profile forwards in Europe in recent years and has been heavily linked with a move to Chelsea since the summer.
However, the Blues have been unable to reach an agreement over his move, leading to suggestions that Newcastle could look to swoop.
Newcastle United unlikely to sign Victor Osimhen in January
Despite initial interest from the Magpies, sources say a deal looks very unlikely, with multiple issues calling the possible move into question.
Osimhen’s record at Napoli made him a hot commodity with Europe’s elite sides and those from Saudi Arabia keen to make him a big-name signing.
The striker scored 76 goals and provided 18 assists during his time in Italy, and his loan spell has started in a similar vein, with eight goals and four assists in his first nine appearances.
This includes a brace in the Europa League clash with Premier League outfit Tottenham as his side ran out 3-2 winners in Turkey.
Interest in his signature has remained high as a result, with a number of clubs tracking his progress with a deal in mind, but a move to Newcastle is now thought to be unlikely.
Osimhen earns £8.3million per year from his Napoli contract, equating to around £160,000 per week, but is expected to demand upwards of that figure when he leaves the club.
As a result, the Magpies are expected to struggle to compete financially, with Anthony Gordon’s latest contract extension making him their highest-paid player on £140,000 per week.
In other news, significant update on Newcastle’s move to sign Gabriel Jesus.
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